In the Book of Exodus, God gave Moses instructions for building what the Bible calls “the Tabernacle of witness in the wilderness.” (Acts 7:44) The purpose of this peculiar structure was to provide a meeting place between God and man—a place for the Israelites to worship God, indeed, a place to communicate with the almighty Creator Himself. Numbers 17:4; 2 Kings 17:35-36

As precious as that scenario is, a question still presents itself to the thinking mind: Why should a 21st Century Christian care about a 3,600-year-old Jewish relic? For that matter, why should a modern-day Jew care about this ancient artifact?

The Tabernacle was replaced more than 3,000 years ago with the completion of Solomon’s Temple. Though there was a striking beauty to certain aspects of this structure, most of it was hidden to all but the few

The ceremonies associated with this edifice have been considered by many as peculiar and even barbaric. Nevertheless, God Himself set this arrangement in place for a grand purpose, and there are numerous references to it throughout His Word. Thus, there are many reasons why the serious student of the Bible should give the Tabernacle of Israel careful attention. Indeed, the study of the Tabernacle of Israel will shed light on the past, present and future destinies of all who have lived— Christians, Jews and even non-believers. As will be seen, God’s love for His creation is shown within the design, ceremonies and structure of the Tabernacle.